Review: 10 to 11

Watching Pelin Esmer’s, 10 to 11, was the perfect way to end this year’s TIFF experience. Although the film tells a simple story and lacks the kind of action we are accustomed to seeing in Hollywood blockbusters, its character driven nature is what makes the film succeed. The film’s slow pacing is reflective of its protagonist, Mithat, who leads a very particular, organized, and unhurried existence. Secondary to the original lead characters, the beguiling depiction of Istanbul’s current state of constant change makes the film so interesting to watch. Read more

TIFF ’10: Spotlight on Istanbul

For the second year in a row, TIFF gives audiences a closer perspective at another city around the world by showcasing films from or about that city. The 2009 City to City programme spotlighted Tel Aviv. This year, we have the chance to explore culturally rich films created by both emerging and seasoned filmmakers from Istanbul, Turkey. This vibrant, historic city has been slowly making its way into other film festivals around the world, and TIFF has taken notice. The City to City programme showcases 7 shorts and 10 feature length films all centering around the cultural, social and political events of Istanbul. Of these 17 films, 6 are North American premieres, 3 International premieres, 3 World premieres, 2 Canadian premieres, and one Toronto premiere. Read more